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Featured Destination

Devon is the only county in England with two separate coasts, north and south. It is the latter that is perhaps better known and more ...MoreMore Uk destinations

Brecon Beacons

In the southeast of Wales , covering 519 square miles is one of the most beautiful National Parks. The Brecon Beacons (known in Welsh as Bannau Brycheiniog) are celebrating their 50th anniversary of National Park status this year.

This outstanding landscape is also a member of UNESCO’s European Geopark Network, recognising its geological and environmental importance. The wild mountains and hidden valleys of the Geopark are the result of nearly 500 million years of earth history. You’ll find the highest mountains in southern Britain here.

There is a wealth of walks, including the 100mile route spanning the length of the park. There are 13 golf courses too. Or a more leisurely stroll along the sweeping slopes of the Black Mountains can be taken. There’s wildlife to see - do look in particular for birds of prey such as Peregrine Falcons, Red Kites, Buzzards and Sparrow Hawks and semi-wild Welsh mountain ponies, roaming and grazing since Roman times but now a rare breed.

Exhilarating or relaxing, the choice is yours from many miles of graded mountain bike tracks, 16 in total. Perhaps unsurprisingly, mountain biking is one of the most popular past-times in the Brecon Beacons. The open countryside is also ideal for horse riding, with the only horse and rider B&Bs in the UK! Many trekking centres cater for the exploration on horseback of ancient bridleways and hills.

Beautiful mountain ranges, forests & valleys prevail but also rivers, lakes, canals, various attractions such as a Shire Horse Centre and caves at the Dan-yr-Ogof Showcaves! Canoeing, fishing and sailing are popular pursuits on Pontsticill Reservoir, in Llangorse Lake or the River Usk and the park is also known for its waterfalls, including the 27 metre high Henrhyd Waterfall, only accessible to those willing to tackle the very steep footpath. For the even more adventurous there is gliding potential & rock climbing facilities. There are several dedicated out-door pursuits centres.

To add to the charm of this spectacular panorama, there is the Brecon Mountain Railway , whose purpose it is to take tourists by steam locomotives into the park, therefore reducing car numbers. Accommodation/dining in the area offers something for all with hotels , cottages , B&B & camping and pubs , restaurants and cafes. Due to varied landscape, aptitudes & its remoteness, parts of the park are used by the military for training purposes. The Brecon Beacons cater for many desires & have much to offer every one of all ages.